Environmental Equity: Non-Discrimination in TCEQ Processes

An overview of nondiscrimination and the TCEQ's Environmental Equity Program.

The TCEQ is committed to protecting the health of the citizens of Texas and its environment. We address environmental equity (also known as environmental justice) concerns for all Texans, including low-income and minority communities across the state, so that all Texans can fully participate in decision-making processes and enjoy the benefits of our environmental programs.

We do not allow discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, or disability in the administration of our programs or activities, as required by federal and state laws and regulations.

Program Overview

Our Environmental Equity Program aims to:

Help Texas residents and neighborhood groups participate in the decision-making and regulatory processes;

How the TCEQ Can Help You

We offer special accommodations, including the following:

Every TCEQ commission meeting agenda states that persons with disabilities who plan to attend a TCEQ commission meeting (also called an agenda) and who may need aids or services such as interpreters, readers, large print, or braille, must contact the Office of the Chief Clerk at 512-239-3300 at least six work days before the agenda, so that we can make arrangements.

Commission meeting agendas also state that people who need help from an interpreter along with their oral presentation at a commission meeting must contact the Office of the Chief Clerk at 512-239-3300 at least five work days before the agenda so that we can make arrangements.

All TCEQ commission meetings (agendas) are broadcast over the Internet and can be watched on any computer or mobile device.

All of our public notices instruct persons with disabilities who need special accommodations at a public meeting to call the Office of the Chief Clerk at 512-239-3300 or 1-800-RELAY-TX (TDD) at least one week before the meeting.

Sometimes we require permit applicants to publish a notice bilingually. Although it is an applicant's responsibility to do so, we often offer Spanish templates and tools. We also offer an English-Spanish glossary to make our translations of both general information and regulatory documents consistent.

How to Report a Concern About Discrimination

If you believe that you've experienced discrimination prohibited under Title VI and related statutes, you may submit your concern to our nondiscrimination coordinator at the following address and phone and fax numbers:

More about Environmental Justice

Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964

As a recipient of federal funding, the TCEQ must follow Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Title VI prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, or national origin in all federally assisted programs. Title VI, 42 U.S.C. §2000D states: “No person in the United States shall, on the ground of race, color, or national origin, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.”

The regulations of Title VI apply not only to intentional discrimination but also to policies and practices that have a discriminatory effect. See 40 CFR 7 for additional information.

…the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people regardless of race, color, national origin, or income with respect to the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies. Fair treatment means that no group of people, including a racial, ethnic, or socioeconomic group, should bear a disproportionate share of the negative environmental consequences resulting from industrial, municipal, and commercial operations or the execution of federal, state, local, and tribal programs and policies.